The Medal of Merit honors those who gave a lifetime of service to the people of Washington. "The recipients have given selflessly of themselves for a better Washington through public service, literature, medicine and advocacy," noted Secretary of State Sam Reed.

The Medal of Valor recognizes individuals who have risked their lives or personal safety to save, or attempt to save, another person’s life. The Medal of Valor cannot be awarded to police officers or fire fighters, or others whose actions are a result of their public duties as a first responder.